J-Hope
After their global popularity led BTS to becoming the first ever K-pop group to win a Billboard Music Award, at the 2017 BBMAs -- a feat that no other Korean aside from Psy has achieved -- all eyes are on the septet. With their trend-setting approach to K-pop and their charismatic, but relatable, personalities, the boy band is the most visible Asian act in the US right now.
While their ever loyal ARMY knows everything that there is to learn about BTS', there's a lot to this South Korean act that newcomers may not be familiar with. But Billboard's basic guide to the BTS members is here to help.
The upbeat Jung Hoseok was born on Feb. 18, 1994, and was a formidable dancer before joining BTS. When the group dropped their first album in 2013, Jung debuted using the stage name J-Hope. Here's what you need to know about him:
1. The Dancing King of BTS
J-Hope, or Hobi as he is often called, is regularly praised for his performance skills, and the other members rely on him for help learning the group's choreography. Along with Jimin and Jungkook, the ball of energy that is J-Hope is a key component in BTS’ dances.
2. Bright, Hopeful Personality
It would be hard to find many K-pop idols with as much enthusiasm for performing, dancing, life, EVERYTHING, as much as J-Hope has. With a broad smile that rarely disappears, and a playful demeanor to go along with it, J-Hope sets the tone for many of BTS’ videos and public appearances.
3. Competitive Dancing Past
Seriously, it’s no joke with J-Hope when it comes to dancing. Back in 2008, he won a national dance competition in South Korea, and quickly picked up a reputation as an up-and-coming performer to keep an eye on within the industry, which led to his inclusion in BTS.
4. One of the Group’s Three Rappers
Even though his background and one true love is dancing, J-Hope has more than proven that he can hold his own against BTS’ other rappers. At the beginning of this year, he said that he’d like to release his own mixtape, which the band’s other rappers both have already done.
5. One of BTS’ First Members
Though many of their more recent releases have offered up a more melodic, softer side to BTS, the group was formed initially as a hip-hop act, and their powerful performances still reflect that. J-Hope was the third member brought into the mix, bringing his moves to complement the hard hitting raps of Rap Monster and Suga.